What is going on with you?" she says, shaking her head and pushing me away. "What's up with all the love and affection? I mean, you of all people, you of the eternal iPod-hoodie combo.

The weird thing about saying good-bye is that it never gets easier.

Mine. I'm on my side.

And now I'm right back where I started. Sober and miserable.

Didn't I promise I'd always look after you and keep you from harm?

Foolish Ever, don't you realize there's no longer any difference between you and your-monster? You are the monster. It's your dark side, your shadow self, and you've now joined as one.

You and I are meant to be. It's the only thing I'm absolutely sure of. And while I have no idea what to expect, I promise I'll do whatever it takes to find my way back.